Hyperthermia

Overview

Hyperthermia means the body is too hot. Heat exhaustion can progress to heat stroke, which is a medical emergency.

Condition	Key Features	Priority
Heat exhaustion	Sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, headache	Stop activity, cool, fluids if conscious
Heat stroke	Confusion, collapse, seizures, reduced consciousness, very hot body	Call 000 and cool aggressively

Heat Exhaustion First Aid

• Stop activity and move the person to shade or a cool area.
• Lay them down or sit them comfortably.
• Loosen tight clothing and cool with water, fans, or wet cloths.
• Give cool fluids if they are conscious and able to swallow.
• Seek medical advice if symptoms persist, worsen, or the person has risk factors.

Heat Stroke First Aid

Heat stroke is life-threatening. Act fast:

• Call 000 immediately.
• Cool the person aggressively using available methods.
• Soak with water, fan continuously, and move to shade or air-conditioning.
• Place ice packs at the neck, armpits, and groin if available.
• Follow DRSABCD.
• If unconscious and breathing normally, place in the recovery position.
• If not breathing normally, start CPR and use an AED.

Important Points

Do not wait for sweating to stop before suspecting heat stroke. Altered behaviour, collapse, or seizures in a hot environment are emergency signs.